LIMERICK City and County Council is seeking tenders for a multi-disciplinary team to prepare a framework plan for a multi-million euro redevelopment of the Arthur’s Quay area in Limerick City.
The area targeted for redevelopment includes Arthur’s Quay Park and Sarsfield House and will incorporate the flood protection work ongoing for the city.
The plan will set out the guidelines for a project that will influence the transformation of the city centre and the council is in talks with local landowners including the University of Limerick, Arthur’s Quay Shopping Centre, Penneys and the owner of the former Debenhams building.
The council will also be engaging with the public and will look to set up a volunteer group from users of the Arthurs Quay Park after the consultants are appointed.
The plan will be financed by the Urban Regeneration Development Fund (URDF) programme which includes a world class waterfront development project in Limerick City.
Mayor Francis Foley said that, as a riverside city, it is important that Limerick embraces the River Shannon and maximises its potential.
“We must also work with the people of Limerick to have their ideas taken into account when we are looking at the future development of Arthur’s Quay and the surrounding areas.”
Council Director of Planning Nuala Gallagher said they were taking a comprehensive approach by working with landowners and others to set out a framework and vision for the area that is ambitious and deliverable.
“We are taking a place-based approach including transport, improved green space, land use to include core retail, culture as well as increased mixed-use residential. It is additionally exciting having University of Limerick involved and to have their presence in the city centre.
“We will be undertaking comprehensive engagement and consultation on the framework and look forward to input from residents and businesses of the city and beyond,” she added.
The council has been collaborating with University of Limerick on projects to improve the look and feel of the exterior of the City Campus in advance of development happening.
A striking mural has been created on the wall facing the river, which is an important entry point to the core city centre area, enlivening what was a dreary area of the city.
The Council intends to bring forward other interim uses for the area, working with the landowners and other stakeholders for next summer to create activity, increase footfall and incorporate family-friendly activities to bring more people into the city.
